Abuja (Nigeria): Dr Oladipupo Fasan, Head of Cardiology at the National Hospital, Abuja, has called for the strengthening of Primary Health Care (PHC) systems to address cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in Nigeria effectively.
Speaking on World Heart Day (Sept. 29), themed “Don’t Miss a Beat,” Fasan stressed the need for stronger capacity at the Primary Health Care (PHC) level.
He said that health workers must be adequately trained to detect and manage heart-related conditions, which differ significantly from common illnesses such as malaria, typhoid, or tuberculosis.
“Doctors, nurses, and community health workers need better training and clear protocols to identify and manage early-stage cardiovascular issues and refer complicated cases appropriately,” he said.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of death globally, accounting for 19.8 million deaths in 2022 — representing 32 per cent of all deaths worldwide.
“Heart attacks and strokes caused more than 85 per cent of these deaths.
“More than 75 per cent of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries.”
Fasan highlighted that, despite Nigeria producing many doctors, a large number were unemployed or leaving the country.
He urged the government to employ more health workers and invest in PHCs.
He noted that the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare was working to integrate the early detection and treatment of hypertension, diabetes, and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) into PHC services.
“This is being done through task-shifting and task-sharing, in line with World Health Organisation (WHO) protocols.
“The WHO protocol is fantastic, but it needs to be implemented quickly,” he said.
Fasan also emphasised the importance of health policies and strong systems in fighting CVDs.
He called for regulations on food manufacturers to reduce the use of salt, sugar, and unhealthy oils, and for expanded access to health insurance to reduce health inequities.
“With an efficient PHC system, we can achieve greater equity in healthcare delivery,” he added.
Reflecting on the 2025 World Heart Day theme, Fasan said it underscored the importance of awareness, regular check-ups, and screening for hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol, conditions that significantly increase the risk of heart disease.
He also pointed out that about 80 per cent of cardiovascular issues were linked to social determinants like income, education, and living conditions.
On prevention, Fasan advised making lifestyle changes, such as regular physical activity, healthy eating, stress management, reducing salt and fat intake, avoiding tobacco, and adhering to prescribed medications.
“We need to bridge the gaps in awareness and treatment.
“For those unaware, we must educate them. For those who need treatment, it must be accessible, affordable, and consistent,” he said.
